Diets for Kids Above 10

Physicians don't typically recommend weight-loss diets for children under age 10. Diets for children over age 10 should be managed by a pediatrician, who will help parents determine if weight loss or weight maintenance is necessary. In 2010, nearly 33 percent of children in the United States are overweight or obese, the American Heart Association states. That figure is three times the number of obese and overweight children in 1963. The Centers for Disease Control outlines best practices for helping overweight and obese children lose weight. The CDC recommends that children over age 7 should strive for weight maintenance rather than weight loss when no weight-related health complications are present.

The Promoting Health in Teens and Kids Diet

The Promoting Health in Teens and Kids, or PHIT diet was designed by doctors and dietitians at Children's Mercy Hospitals in Kansas City, MO. In the first six months of the programs, children and their families meet monthly with program organizers. They discuss healthy eating habits and even participate in cooking classes. Following the completion of the six-month program, families continue to meet monthly for an additional 18 months. In addition to encouraging healthy eating habits, the PHIT plan also incorporates a fitness regimen into the program.

Weight Watchers

Weight Watchers is a commercial diet plan that combines diet with weekly meetings during which participants are applauded for their weight loss accomplishments and learn healthy eating strategies. Children over age 10 are allowed to participate in the Weight Watcher's plan with written permission from a physician. The physician must outline a specific weight-loss goal for the child. The Weight Watchers program uses a points system, assigning every food a point value based on its nutritional content and then allotting participants a given number of daily points.

American Heart Association

The AHA recommends a diet for children that is low in fat and refined sugars and high in fiber and complex carbohydrates. Portion control is also emphasized. In the December 2005 issue of "Circulation," Dr. Samuel Gidding writes that the AHA diet decreases the recommended daily caloric intake for sedentary children and limits the number of low-nutrient snacks and sugary drinks. The AHA diet increases the consumption of whole grains, fish, lean meats, fruits and vegetables. It meets the recommended daily nutritional requirements for children over age 10.